Popular Afro-pop band Sauti Sol has officially canceled their much-anticipated 2021 African tour, citing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and related travel restrictions. The news was announced today, April 1, 2021, in a statement released by the band on their social media platforms, explaining that the safety and well-being of their fans, team, and communities remain their top priority.

The tour, which was set to take the band to multiple cities across Africa, including performances in Lagos, Accra, and Abidjan, had been eagerly awaited by fans since it was announced earlier this year. However, with the pandemic still posing a significant risk, and restrictions on large gatherings and international travel still in place across many countries, the band made the difficult decision to call off the tour.

In their statement, Sauti Sol expressed their disappointment, saying:
“We have been looking forward to performing live for our fans across Africa, but with the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and various restrictions, we cannot, in good conscience, proceed with the tour. We hope to reschedule once the situation improves.”

The cancellation is a major setback for the band’s plans in 2021, as live performances and tours are a significant part of their engagement with fans. The decision also reflects the broader impact of the pandemic on the global music and entertainment industry, with many artists forced to cancel or postpone their tours due to health concerns and logistical challenges.

While the band has had to cancel the tour, they reassured fans that they are working on new projects and hope to connect virtually through live-streamed events and digital platforms until it is safe to return to the stage. The band members also thanked their fans for their ongoing support and understanding during these challenging times.

Sauti Sol is one of Africa’s most successful contemporary music groups, known for their hits such as “Suzanna”, “Melanin”, and “Midnight Train”. The band has a massive following across the continent and is widely regarded for blending traditional African music with modern Afro-pop.

The group’s African tour was expected to be one of the biggest musical events of the year, but the cancellation reflects the realities that many in the entertainment industry continue to face due to the pandemic.